According to Spanish outlet as, a call between Mauricio Pochettino and Dani Ceballos could have been enough to secure the 22-year-old on loan.
The report explains that the Spaniard, who is fresh from lifting the Under 21 Euros trophy, wanted assurances that he would get regular playing time if he was to make the North London move.
It is understandable, as he only managed 13 starts and 10 substitute appearances in the league for Real Madrid this campaign – so will have been wary of having his development negatively impacted by more time off the pitch.
Though he has shown signs of his quality during the Under 21 Euros, scoring twice and assisting twice in five matches, while also dictating large periods of the play.
The report from as also indicates that AC Milan are interested in getting him, though their lack of European football for the 2019/20 campaign makes North London his more likely destination.
This could leave Spurs to secure his services for the season, with football.london also suggesting there could be an option to buy the talented midfielder following the loan’s culmination.
Real Madrid need to sell players so they can balance their books, Ceballos wants a club where he can get regular game time, while Spurs need a talented and creative midfielder – meaning the deal is a good one for everyone involved.